Pau Courses – 2026-27 Yearlong

USAC Course Descriptions

Click the course title to view course details, description and availability. To request a course syllabus: syllabus@usac.edu

• Artistic Movements in France and Europe

  Spring

  Art French 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course examines the major artistic movements in France and Europe from prehistory to today through an analysis of key themes, characteristics, areas of influence, and artists of each movement. Through an examination of painting, sculpture, architecture, and music, students will explore how artists engaged with religious reform, political power, scientific discovery, among other topics as they contextualize major artistic movements in their broader cultural and historical settings.

  Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Business French

  Fall

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course will familiarize students with the world of work and business in France and, more generally, in the French-speaking world. At the end of the course, students will take a B1 level diploma (DFP B1) from the CCIP (Paris Chamber of Commerce and Industry). Lessons will draw from CCIP methods, authentic documents (advertisements, comics, audio-visual documents, newspaper articles, etc.), role plays, and scenarios (for example: calling the tourist office to request information).

  Prerequisite: four semesters of college French, or equivalent

• Climate Change: Nature and Society

  Fall

  Environmental Science Geography Sociology 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Spring

  Environmental Science Geography Sociology 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Employing an interdisciplinary approach combined with site visits, this course provides an in-depth analysis of climate change; how it works, when it started, and who is involved in its causes, effects, and possible solutions. We explore how society has been changing the climate and how climate change is impacting society and ecosystems through the deconstruction of the idea that society and nature are opposite and should be understood separately—which is essential to understand the complexity of climate change.

• Environmental Geology of the Pyrenees: A Story of Glaciers, Earthquakes, and Landslides

  Fall

  Environmental Science Geography 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

  This course focuses on understanding the environmental processes that shape the natural world with preparations for and assessment of environmental challenges. Topics include: climate change, earthquakes and tectonic activity, volcanism, landslides, floods, and changing coastal environments. Regional examples and the historical relevance of environmental concerns to southern France will be emphasized, particularly regional climate and ecological changes, floods, snowpack in the Pyrenees, avalanches, and wildfires.

• European Cinema

  Fall

  Art Film 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  Art Film 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  In this class, students will watch contemporary movies in the original language with French subtitles from EU countries including: France, Germany, Italy, Denmark, Sweden, Netherlands, Bulgaria, England, and Spain that address issues such as traditions, religion, family, gender roles, politics, immigration and national identity. In addition, the students will choose another movie produced in the EU to analyze for the final project/presentation. Through pre-screening film activities and post-screening discussions, students will learn about a variety of cultures that make up the European Union. Students will also be given daily worksheets and questions in class to encourage participation in class discussions and to fully understand the important themes of each film.

  Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• First Year French I

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in French

  This course introduces beginners to the foundational elements of the French language and develops the four core language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The focus is on practical and familiar contexts such as introducing oneself, asking for directions, shopping, or describing people and places. Emphasis is placed on pronunciation, comprehension of basic instructions, and simple exchanges. Through guided activities, authentic materials, and interactive lessons, students begin to build confidence in using French for everyday tasks. Students will engage in practical exercises that reflect everyday situations, working collaboratively with peers in an immersive French environment.

• First Year French II

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 100-level 4 credits Taught in French

  This course introduces beginners to the foundational elements of the French language and develops the four core language skills—listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The focus is on practical and familiar contexts such as introducing oneself, asking for directions, shopping, or describing people and places. Emphasis is placed on pronunciation, comprehension of basic instructions, and simple exchanges. Through guided activities, authentic materials, and interactive lessons, students begin to build confidence in using French for everyday tasks. Students will engage in practical exercises that reflect everyday situations, working collaboratively with peers in an immersive French environment.

  Prerequisite: One semester of college-level French, or equivalent

• Food and Culture

  Fall

  Anthropology Nutrition 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Spring

  Anthropology Nutrition 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  This course offers an in-depth exploration of French cuisine, its cultural significance, and its connection to French history, geography, culture, and society. Students will delve into how food practices in France have evolved over centuries, shaped by regional influences and political changes, examining the ways in which meals, ingredients, and dining rituals reflect the diversity of French culture and identity. Topics include traditional French cooking techniques, the importance of wine and cheese, the art of pâtisserie, and the influence of French cuisine on global gastronomy. In addition, students will study the relationship between food and social practices, such as family meals, holidays, and the growing movement toward sustainability and local sourcing. Through readings, discussions, and hands-on experiences, students will not only gain a deep appreciation for French food traditions but also understand how food serves as a mirror of societal values, such as hospitality, community, and regional pride.

• Fourth Year French I

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This intensive course further develops the four core language skills—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The focus is on strengthening students’ ability to communicate clearly and effectively in a range of formal and informal contexts, including academic, professional, and social settings. Through an action-oriented and immersive approach, students engage with authentic materials such as articles, interviews, debates, podcasts, and reports to explore complex topics in French society and culture. Students practice expressing and justifying opinions, analyzing issues, summarizing points of view, and interacting fluently with peers on abstract and nuanced subjects. Emphasis is placed on expanding lexical and grammatical precision, using appropriate registers, and improving argumentation and discourse organization. By the end of the course, students should feel confident using French with fluency and spontaneity in real-world situations and discussions involving current events and cultural debates.

  Prerequisite: Six semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Fourth Year French II

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This intensive course further develops the four core language skills—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The focus is on strengthening students’ ability to communicate clearly and effectively in a range of formal and informal contexts, including academic, professional, and social settings. Through an action-oriented and immersive approach, students engage with authentic materials such as articles, interviews, debates, podcasts, and reports to explore complex topics in French society and culture. Students practice expressing and justifying opinions, analyzing issues, summarizing points of view, and interacting fluently with peers on abstract and nuanced subjects. Emphasis is placed on expanding lexical and grammatical precision, using appropriate registers, and improving argumentation and discourse organization. By the end of the course, students should feel confident using French with fluency and spontaneity in real-world situations and discussions involving current events and cultural debates.

  Prerequisite: Seven semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• France Today

  Spring

  French 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course will expose students to various aspects of French society and provide students a space to develop a more meaningful understanding of French culture. In addition, students will strengthen their foundational knowledge of French political, social, and education systems and develop the ability to analyze highly debated issues such as immigration and religion.

  Prerequisite: four semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• French Conversation

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 300-level 1-3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 300-level 1-3 credits Taught in French

  The objective of this course is to facilitate the acquisition of language necessary to express oneself in daily situations as well as in more difficult contexts. Different conversational themes and related vocabulary are introduced for discussion.

  Prerequisite: two semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• French Culture and Civilization

  Fall

  300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course provides a strong historical and cultural foundation, exploring key topics in French culture and civilization including history, geography, politics, and art and music, from its beginnings through the nineteenth century, while also exploring French traditions, regional identities, and nationalism.

  Through the lens of Pau and the broader region of Bayonne and Lescar’s unique history and culture, this course offers a fresh perspective on what shapes life in France today.

  Prerequisite: Four semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• French for Health Professions

  Fall

  French 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course will develop student knowledge of French grammar and specialized medical terminology to successfully communicate with French-speaking patients and medical staff. Students will also learn about the unique culture of French healthcare.

  Prerequisite: Four semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• French Stylistics

  Fall

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course is designed to guide learners through advanced language skills, focusing on fluency, comprehension, and effective communication in a variety of contexts. It emphasizes the development of key language skills, ensuring students can engage in complex communication.

  Prerequisite: Six semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Government and Politics in France

  Fall

  Honors Political Science 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Spring

  Honors Political Science 400-level 3 credits Taught in English

  This course will explore critical issues related to French politics, power dynamics in foreign policy, national elections, and political parties. Students will examine significant policies put forth by presidents of the Fifth Republic, its evolution in French society, and its impact on the French people.

  Prerequisite: one semester of college-level political science or international relations, or equivalent

  Honors-eligible: This course is eligible for honors credit. Membership in your home university Honors program and supplemental honors learning agreement is required to receive honors credit for this course. See USAC Honors page

• Intercultural Communication

  Fall

  Communications Honors 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Spring

  Communications Honors 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Practical intercultural communication skills are essential in a multicultural society, particularly for individuals in positions that require effective management of cultural conflicts. This course will develop professional communication skills to enhance student performance in intercultural contexts in the workplace. Students will explore communication behaviors, language usage, nonverbal communication styles, and interpretations among cultures in the United States, France, and other parts of Europe.

  Honors-eligible: This course is eligible for honors credit. Membership in your home university Honors program and supplemental honors learning agreement is required to receive honors credit for this course. See USAC Honors page

• Internship

  Spring

  Internships 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  USAC skills-based internships abroad are designed to complement a student’s program of study while providing a structured work or field experience under the direction of a professional supervisor and with the oversight and support of an on-site USAC internship coordinator.

  USAC internships facilitate the academic and professional development of students through:

  1) the practical application of knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to a professional work environment.

  2) the further development of practical competencies essential to the ongoing work of the placement site.

  3) the cultivation of a network of professional contacts.

  USAC internships will expose students to the workplace culture, norms, and expectations of their respective placement site and host country, deepening cross-cultural understanding and helping students develop intercultural communication and language skills in an internationally focused organization or other professional work setting.

  Through the consistent participation in the processes and practices of a professional field, students will acquire a working knowledge of that field and will apply that learning to their own career and academic choices and goals.

  This course has an additional fee

• Language and Cinema

  Fall

  Art 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  Art 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Students will explore elements of film analysis and develop the sociological and historical foundation to effectively analyze the role of cinema in French society. Students will also develop their skills in written composition, oral expression, and argumentation. Press articles about recent French cinema will be discussed in class as well.

  Ce cours associe le travail de l’écrit et de lecture avec l’utilisation d’articles de presse et le travail de l’oral par la projection d’extraits de films français récents.

  Ce cours de cinéma présente des éléments d’analyse de film tout en offrant à la réflexion la société française sous plusieurs axes, sociologiques comme historiques, et en permettant aussi un développement important de l’argumentation écrite comme orale.

  Prerequisite: six semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Mountain Communities: The Pyrenees

  Spring

  Anthropology Sociology 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  The Pyrénées mountain range, stretching along the border between France and Spain, is a region rich in cultural history, ecological diversity, and unique community dynamics. This course explores the complex relationship between the mountain communities and their environment, from prehistoric times to the present day. It examines how geography, language, economy, and political borders have shaped distinctive Pyrenean societies. Students will examine the cultural, economic, and social challenges faced by the communities living in the Pyrénées, as well as the ways in which these communities have adapted to the rugged, high-altitude landscape.

• Plants and People

  Fall

  Biology 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Spring

  Biology 200-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Plants and people have a long history of coexistence and have intertwined roles and consequences throughout the progression of life. Students will evaluate, analyze, and explain the human way of life developed over centuries of adaptation. The focus will be on the production and consumption of plants in France.

• Second Year French I

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This intensive course develops the four core language skills—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The focus is on enabling students to communicate in simple and routine tasks, understand frequently used expressions related to areas of immediate relevance, and describe aspects of their background and immediate environment. Students will engage in practical exercises that reflect everyday situations, working collaboratively with peers in an immersive French environment. Through contextual practice using dialogues, articles, videos, and other resources, students will complete communicative tasks each week. By the end of the course, students should feel confident in handling basic communication in French, discussing familiar topics, and managing simple transactions.

  Prerequisite: two semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Second Year French II

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 200-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This intensive course develops the four core language skills—speaking, listening, reading, and writing. The focus is on enabling students to communicate in simple and routine tasks, understand frequently used expressions related to areas of immediate relevance, and describe aspects of their background and immediate environment. Students will engage in practical exercises that reflect everyday situations, working collaboratively with peers in an immersive French environment. Through contextual practice using dialogues, articles, videos, and other resources, students will complete communicative tasks each week. By the end of the course, students should feel confident in handling basic communication in French, discussing familiar topics, and managing simple transactions.

  Prerequisite: Three semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Seminar in French Language

  Fall

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course is designed to guide learners through advanced language skills, focusing on fluency, comprehension, and effective communication in a variety of contexts. It emphasizes the development of key language skills, ensuring students can engage in complex communication.

  Prerequisite: Six semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Survey of French Literature I

  Fall

  French 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course reviews five literary movements: Humanism, Pléiade, Baroque, Classicism, and the Enlightenment. It will explore authors and major French texts from the Middle Ages to the 18th century, such as La Chanson de Roland, Ronsard, Montaigne, Molière, La Fontaine, Diderot, and Voltaire. Students will mainly discover, through the study, in their context, extracts from significant and well-known works that may give rise to specific extensions (analysis of an iconographic document, projection of an audio-visual record, outing to the theatre, etc.).

  Prerequisite: five semesters of college-level French; students who have completed second-year French with strong grades may be considered with home university approval

• Survey of French Literature II

  Spring

  French 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This course explores literary movements including Romanticism, Realism, Naturalism, Symbolism, Surrealism, Theatre de l'Absurde, and Nouveau Roman literature. Students will develop the historical and theoretical foundation necessary to analyze essential French texts of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. This course will introduce students to the works of Chateaubriand, Lamartine, Hugo, Musset, Maupassant, Baudelaire, Proust, Giono, Ionesco, Eluard, Desnos, and Sarraute.

  Prerequisite: five semesters of college-level French; students who have completed second-year French with strong grades may be considered with home university approval

• Sustainability in France

  Spring

  Environmental Science Geography 300-level 3 credits Taught in English

  Sustainability is the goal of maintaining natural systems and human societies on Earth. The multitude of challenges to sustainability, such as warming climate, ecological damage, population pressure, and social turmoil, make this a critical topic of study worldwide. In this course we will set the stage with the basic elements of sustainability in France, a nation with rich natural resources and strong environmental programs but facing numerous challenges. We will explore the environmental, economic, and social dimensions of sustainability in the French Republic in Europe as well as the Overseas Territories. Challenges to sustainability provide knowledge for our understanding of the strengths and limitations of current French policies and actions. Case studies will range from livable cities to agriculture to the wine industry. The intersection of gender, ethnicity, race, and sexuality with sustainability is a key theme. Finally, the broader context of France in the world as a member of the European Union, World Trade Organization, and United Nations helps us place France as a global actor in the interconnected network of international sustainability. This course will prepare you for analyzing environmental and social issues related to sustainability and leave them with an appreciation for the practical challenges that face French society—and the world—in this century. Pau´s location in southwestern France provides excellent opportunities to study and visit sustainability projects.

  Introductory coursework in biology, ecology, economics, political science, international affairs, or resource management recommended

• Third Year French I

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This intensive course develops the four core language skills – speaking, listening, reading, and writing The focus is on fostering autonomy in everyday communication and engaging with relevant social and cultural topics. Students will work in an immersive French environment, collaborating with international peers on tasks that reflect real-life situations. Through an action-oriented approach, students will practice French in context (using dialogues, articles, videos, etc.) and complete communicative tasks each week. By the end of the course, students should feel confident functioning in French in daily life scenarios and discussing familiar subjects.

  Prerequisite: Four semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• Third Year French II

  Fall

  French World Languages and Literatures 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French World Languages and Literatures 300-level 3 credits Taught in French

  This intensive course develops the four core language skills – speaking, listening, reading, and writing The focus is on fostering autonomy in everyday communication and engaging with relevant social and cultural topics. Students will work in an immersive French environment, collaborating with international peers on tasks that reflect real-life situations. Through an action-oriented approach, students will practice French in context (using dialogues, articles, videos, etc.) and complete communicative tasks each week. By the end of the course, students should feel confident functioning in French in daily life scenarios and discussing familiar subjects.

  Prerequisite: Five semesters of college-level French, or equivalent

• 20th-Century and Contemporary French Literature

  Fall

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Spring

  French 400-level 3 credits Taught in French

  Analysis and study of contemporary French Literature through theater, poetry and novel.

  Through readings, lectures and class discussion, students will discover selected texts which demonstrate main topics and ideas in contemporary French literature.

  Students will develop the theoretical foundation necessary to analyze French literary texts.

  Prerequisite: six semesters of college French, or equivalent